English

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Giant cell tumours of the tendon sheath are the second commonest tumours of the hand after ganglion cysts. Usually they involve volar aspect of the proximal interphalangeal joint of fingers. Here is a case where dorsal aspect of the distal interphalangeal joint of the middle finger is involved which is a rare presentation. CASE DETAILS: 47 yrs male patient came with swelling in the middle finger of left hand since two years, examination of it reveals 2.5x2 cm firm lobulated swelling adherent to underlying tissues, skin over it is free from the swelling. X- ray examination reveals rounded soft tissue shadow with erosion of the dorsal surface and radial border of the distal phalanx. It was treated with marginal excision of the tumour and a part of tendon sheath. Histopathological examination confirms the diagnosis of giant cell tumour of the tendon sheath. CONCLUSION: Giant cell tumour of tendon sheath involving the dorsal aspect of the distal interphalangeal joint of the fingers is rare. Radiologically it produces bone erosion. Involving the dorsal aspect, distal interphalangeal joint and erosion of bone in X-ray are the factors for the high recurrence rate. Surgical marginal excision is the treatment of choice.